Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ɪnˈkɑːrnət/
KK: /ɪnˈkɑrnɪt/
Definition
Embodied in a physical form, especially in a human way; representing a particular quality or idea in a tangible way.
Example
The artist's work is love incarnate, capturing the essence of affection in every brushstroke.
Conversation

Have you ever met someone who seems like evil incarnate?

Yeah, it's like they were born to create chaos.

It's fascinating how some people can embody such negative traits.

Totally, it's like they're the perfect example of a villain in real life.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
embodied
personified
manifest
Antonyms
disembodied
abstract
invisible
Definition
To give a physical form or embodiment to something, especially in a human way.
Example
The artist aimed to incarnate his ideas into a sculpture.
Tense Forms
Past: incarnated
Past Participle: incarnated
Conversation

Have you ever thought about how stories incarnate their characters?

Yeah, it’s fascinating to see how authors bring them to life.

Exactly! It’s like they incarnate their own ideas and emotions through these characters.
Root Explanation
Incarnate is formed from "in-" (meaning into) and "carnatus" (from "caro", meaning flesh). The word describes something that is made flesh or embodied, particularly in a physical form.
Memory Tip
Think of something being made 'into' ('in-') 'flesh' ('carnatus') — that's why incarnate means to embody or take physical form.
Visually Confused Words
unincarnate
reincarnate
uncarnate
carnate
unincarnated
preincarnate
disincarnate
incoronate